2 ms·

(1 + 2) * 3

• jacquesm 16y ago
  You've just changed the precedence.
  • dchest 16y ago
    Thanks, I know. I meant that most non-scientific calculators I used worked this way.
    • jacquesm 16y ago
      That doesn't make them less broken! And if the software has the capability to do it right why bother building in a 'broken' mode.
      • evilduck 16y ago
        It reflects the old paper tape usage model, where you typed it in in the order you wanted to perform the operations. Apple's Calculator.app works similarly, although their default state is better. If you open up the "Shown Paper Tape" window, and type "1 + 2 * 3 [enter]", it replies "1 + 2 * 3 = 7" If you then type "1 + 2 [enter]", it replies "1 + 2 = 3", then if you hit " * 3 [enter]" it replies "1 + 2 * 3 = 9".
        • jacquesm 16y ago
          Yes, I can see how the 'enter' would force the precedence. The '=' key will do the same.
      • user24 16y ago
        I think it's because non-mathematical people tend to use calculators in the 'broken' way. Their thought process is "ok, 1+2" (implicit equals) "times 3".